Solanum sisymbriifolium aka Sticky Nightshade

Taxonomy

Solanum sisymbriifolium, also known as vila-vila, sticky nightshade, red buffalo-bur, the fire-and-ice plant, litchi tomato, or Morelle de Balbis, is a tender perennial typically grown as an annual. This plant features deeply-lobed leaves covered in sticky hairs, along with stems and leaves armed with red, spiny prickles. Throughout the summer, it produces large clusters of white or pale blue flowers, followed by green, spiny fruit cases that split open to reveal edible but insipid bright red fruits. The small fruits have a red exterior and yellow interior, enclosed within a spiny green husk. They can be easily removed from the stem when ripe and have a flavor reminiscent of sour cherries and tomatoes. Solanum sisymbriifolium is known for its resistance to many pests and diseases due to the presence of solasodine in its stems and leaves. However, it is susceptible to potato beetles and tomato hornworms. This plant has been utilized as a trap crop to protect potatoes from potato cyst nematode. Additionally, its prickly nature makes it suitable as a hedge plant to deter animals from entering gardens. When cultivating Sticky Nightshade as a houseplant, it requires regular watering and thrives best in long-lasting, direct light. Placing it within one foot of a window is recommended. Well-draining soil is preferred, and a gentle, organic fertilizer can be applied during the peak growing season for optimal growth.

Common names

Sticky Nightshade, Wild Tomato, Dense Thorn Bitter Apple

How to care for Sticky Nightshade

Water

Sticky Nightshade should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Sticky Nightshade loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Lighting

Sticky Nightshade requires abundant, bright, and direct light to thrive. The best placement for this plant is within one foot of a window to ensure it receives enough light. If you live in an area with more extreme weather, such as hot summers or cold winters, you may need to adjust the placement of the plant accordingly. During hot summer months, it is important to place the plant away from full sun, as this can cause the leaves to yellow or burn. During cold winter months, it is best to move the plant closer to the window to take advantage of the extra light that can help it survive. By keeping an eye on the current weather in your area, you can make sure your Wild Tomato is always in the right place to thrive.

Toxicity

There is no verified data on the toxicity of this plant in the records of Ploi. If any person, including yourself, a family member, or a pet, consume plant material with an uncertain toxicity level, it is advisable to seek the advice of a healthcare expert.

Humidity

No extra humidity is necessary for the Sticky Nightshade. Absorption of water by plants is primarily done through their roots, and soil watering is the most effective method to provide humidity to your plants.

Region of origin

Sticky Nightshade’s native range is Worldwide.


More info:
Wikipedia